Aston Martin’s line of DB grand coupes have always had their wheels firmly planted in the cinema world. In addition to the numerous James Bonds, countless productions have featured her, using her sculptural features for the aesthetics of the works, even their narrative framework. That’s why the new Aston Martin DB12 was unveiled last week not far from Cannes, where the must-see festival was taking place.
This new representative of a select line born in 1948 has the delicate task of developing a concept that could seem anachronistic in a world where SUVs and electrification share the headlines. Never mind, the grand touring formula of the DB12 picks up where the DB11 left off, with a similar design, for the pleasure of the eyes. The sweeping roofline still floats at the rear, the front wheel arches still open to the fender. The front grille, however, is significantly more massive than before.
The long hood hides a 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 produced by the AMG division of Mercedes-Benz. This mechanism, which was also used by the DB11, has the delicate task of replacing the V12, which could return, without knowing when or how. Moreover, its 671 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque should be more than enough for the task, a power gain of 34% compared to the model it replaces. Everything is relayed to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a new electronic differential.
The aluminum chassis has also been revised; we have increased its torsional rigidity in addition to adding new adaptive dampers offering a much wider range of adjustments.
The passenger compartment is completely remodeled, a reform that will do it a lot of good. Using two screens to broadcast the necessary information and navigate the multimedia system at the same time, the configuration of the dashboard is infinitely more contemporary and uses several physical keys. For those interested, the first deliveries of the D12s will begin in the third quarter of the year.
